Mimic the Pizza Hut Priazzo at home with our easy copycat recipe. Enjoy the nostalgic deep-dish pizza with authentic taste and simple ingredients.
Introducing the Pizza Hut Priazzo – A Delicious Blast from the 80s! Do you love food and nostalgia? Indulge your cravings with the copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo, bringing the 1980s back to the dinner table. If you grew up in the mid to late 80s, you might remember the mouthwatering dish known as the Priazzo. Invented by the genius marketing consultant Charles Brymer, who also named the iconic Pontiac Fiero, the Priazzo was a thick pan pizza that resembled a pie filled with layers of delectable meats, veggies, and more. Some may even compare it to a crusty lasagna. The Priazzo was such a hit at Pizza Hut that a Facebook group, “Bring the Pizza Hut Priazzo Back,” was created by devoted fans who still long for its return. And why wouldn’t they? This tantalizing treat offered not just one, but four deep-dish offerings that would make your taste buds sing.
But hold on, we hear you in the back. These weren’t your typical deep-dish pizzas. They were a fusion of stuffed pizza colliding with deep-dish goodness. Imagine layers of sauce, a tantalizing assortment of pizza toppings, another layer of crust, and then more sauce, toppings, and cheese. It’s a symphony of flavors packed into a single pie!
The original Priazzo came in three varieties, each named after Italian cities, ensuring an authentic taste experience. And the best part? It’s not just a memory. You can relive the glory days by savoring the ultimate Italian Pie once again.
Whether you crave the nostalgic taste of the Priazzo or you’re eager to try this legendary creation for the first time, you won’t be disappointed. For just $8.05, you can enjoy a small Priazzo, while a medium will cost you $10.95, and a large is priced at around $13.75.
Don’t miss out on this blast from the food in our past that we all want back. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the Pizza Hut Priazzo today, and let the memories of the 80s come alive on your dinner table. Indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavors and experience the joy of a bygone era. Order now and satisfy your cravings for nostalgia and mouthwatering deliciousness.
For those wanting a little blast past from the past, here’s a Pizza Hut Priazzo commercial:
Why did Pizza Hut stop making Priazzo?
Let’s dive into the reasons behind its disappearance.
One of the main factors that led to the discontinuation of the Priazzo was the lengthy preparation time. The Priazzo required a substantial amount of time to assemble and bake, which resulted in longer wait times for customers. This extended waiting period eventually became a challenge for Pizza Hut to manage effectively. As a result, Pizza Hut made the decision to remove the Priazzo from their lunch menu and limited its availability to specific times, typically after 4 PM on weekdays and weekends.
As time went on, Pizza Hut gradually phased out the Priazzo from its menu offerings. The last official mention of the Priazzo by Pizza Hut in print was in 1993, indicating that it had been removed from their menu by that time.
While the Priazzo had its complexities, Pizza Hut aimed to simplify its menu without compromising on taste and enjoyment. They developed new recipes that could offer similar fun and great flavors without the hassle associated with the Priazzo’s longer preparation time. This led to the creation of alternative menu items that retained the essence of the Priazzo but were easier to produce and serve.
When it comes to the cheese used in the Priazzo, there have been some variations in Pizza Hut’s signature cheese blend over the years. One source suggests that their cheese blend consisted of four types: sharp Cheddar, Edam, Romano, and Parmesan. However, according to others, the original Pizza Hut “cheese blend” was composed of six different cheeses: Mozzarella, Cheddar, Parmesan, Provolone, Monterey Jack, and Romano. These unique cheese combinations contributed to the distinctive flavors of the Priazzo.
In the case of our copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo, we have focused on the authentic taste using Mozzarella cheese, which we believe captures the essence of the 1985 Pizza Hut Priazzo. However, Pizza Hut offers several cheese blends, so if you prefer a more genuine replication, you can experiment with their various cheese options.
It’s worth noting that Pizza Hut is renowned for its significant cheese consumption, utilizing around three percent of all U.S. cheese production. With over 300 million pounds of cheese consumed annually, Pizza Hut continues to innovate and create new pizza experiences while honoring the nostalgia of beloved past dishes.
Although the Priazzo may have been removed from Pizza Hut’s menu in 1986, we are excited to bring it back to your dinner table with our copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo. Enjoy the flavors that capture the essence of the original, and reminisce about the cherished memories it evokes.
Bring the 1980s back to dinner with this Copy Cat Pizza Hut Priazzo!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) box Pillsbury pie crusts (or use the copycat Pizza Hut Pizza Dough)
- 1 cup (240 ml) jars Ragu pizza sauce (Try making the copycat Pizza Hut Sauce below!)
- 1 pound (454 grams) sausage or ground beef (a combination of both works well)
- 1 small onion, optional (diced)
- 1 package pepperoni
- 4 cups (about 400 grams) mozzarella cheese (or try cheddar cheese)
How to Make a Priazzo:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare a deep pie pan with non-stick spray.
- Unroll one pie crust into a deep dish 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it covers the sides. (I recommend deep dish 9-inch pie plates)
TIP:
You’ll want to work it up the sides of your pan. In the end, the dough should overlap the sides making a barrier to hold the thick, delicious pizza sauce.
This is a sure-fire way to lock in all the flavors of your pizza.
Brown the sausage over medium heat in a large skillet. Add diced onion if using.
Drain the grease from the sausage and transfer the cooked meat to the prepared pie crust.
Add the meat from the pan to the prepared pie crust.
Pour half of the jar of Ragu pizza sauce over the meat.
Layer 2 cups of mozzarella cheese on top of the meat.
Next, pour the second half of the Ragu pizza sauce jar over the mozzarella cheese layer.
Layer the pepperonis on top of the sauce.
Add half of the pizza sauce from the second jar of Ragu pizza sauce on top of the pepperonis and smooth out.
Layer 2 more cups of mozzarella cheese.
Then the second half of the second jar of Ragu pizza sauce on top.
Unroll the second Pillsbury pie crust on top of the pizza pie and tuck the edges in.
Crimp edges after tucking to keep all the goodness inside.
Cut holes on top for ventilation.
Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
Enjoy the delightful taste of nostalgia with each delicious bite of this Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo!
TIP:
- To prevent the edges from browning too quickly, cover them with foil during most of the cooking time and remove it for the last 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serves 6. Refrigerate leftovers. Reheats well.
We all know Pizza Hut has options, so if you want to Flashback, even more,
Try these variations for your Copy Cat Pizza Hut Priazzo:
Get ready to elevate your Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo experience with these delicious variations:
- Priazzo Roma: For a classic flavor combination, gather a small green pepper, black olives, mushrooms, pepperoni, Italian sausage, ground beef, Mozzarella, onion, and cheddar cheese. Layer these ingredients between the crust and savor the rich and savory taste of the Priazzo Roma.
- Godfather: Take the Priazzo Roma to the next level by adding a blend of Monterrey Jack, Parmesan, and creamy ricotta cheese. This combination will bring a luxurious and indulgent touch to your Priazzo, enriching every bite with a perfect balance of flavors.
- Milano: Calling all meat lovers! Create the ultimate meat eater’s delight by piling on Canadian bacon while omitting the small onion. This variation will satisfy your carnivorous cravings and take the Priazzo to new heights of meaty deliciousness.
- Florentine: Indulge in a blend of five delectable cheeses to create the Florentine variation. Combine creamy ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, Mozzarella, and cheddar cheese for a rich and cheesy experience. Add a generous amount of ham and a touch of spinach to enhance the flavors and create a truly satisfying Priazzo.
- Priazzo Napoli: For a refreshing twist, add sliced tomatoes to the top layer of your Priazzo. This addition brings a burst of tanginess and freshness to the rich and hearty flavors of the Priazzo Napoli, creating a well-rounded taste sensation.
- Portofino: Take your Priazzo on a flavorful journey by incorporating chopped red or green bell pepper and onion to the sausage layer. This variation adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness from the bell pepper and onion, elevating the overall taste and texture of the Portofino Priazzo.
Unleash your creativity and experiment with these mouthwatering variations. Make each Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo uniquely yours by customizing the ingredients and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or crave bold and innovative flavors, these variations will undoubtedly enhance your Priazzo experience and leave you wanting more. Enjoy the journey of discovering your favorite Priazzo creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo Recipe:
- Can I use pre-made pizza dough for the Priazzo? Yes, you can use pre-made pizza dough for convenience. Look for pre-made pizza dough at your local grocery store or consider using refrigerated pizza dough. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking and preparation.
- Can I make the Priazzo vegetarian? Absolutely! You can easily customize the Priazzo to be vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit the meat ingredients and load up on your favorite vegetables instead. Consider adding options like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and any other vegetables you enjoy. You can also experiment with vegetarian meat substitutes if desired.
- Can I make the Priazzo gluten-free? Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the Priazzo by using gluten-free pizza dough or crust alternatives. Look for gluten-free pizza dough options available at stores or explore homemade gluten-free crust recipes using alternative flours like rice flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Can I make the Priazzo ahead of time and refrigerate it? While it’s best to enjoy the Priazzo fresh out of the oven, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Assemble the Priazzo, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and then follow the baking instructions.
- Can I freeze the Priazzo for later use? Yes, you can freeze the Priazzo for future enjoyment. After assembling and baking the Priazzo, let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. The Priazzo can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
- Can I adjust the cheese quantities and types in the recipe? Absolutely! The cheese quantities and types mentioned in the recipe are suggestions to replicate the flavors of the original Priazzo. However, feel free to adjust the cheese amounts and experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Get creative with different cheeses like fontina, Gouda, or provolone to add your own twist to the Priazzo.
Remember, these FAQs are here to guide you, but don’t hesitate to let your culinary creativity shine as you make your own version of the Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo Recipe:
- Can I use pre-made pizza dough for the Priazzo? Yes, you can use pre-made pizza dough for convenience. Look for pre-made pizza dough at your local grocery store or consider using refrigerated pizza dough. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking and preparation.
- Can I make the Priazzo vegetarian? Absolutely! You can easily customize the Priazzo to be vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit the meat ingredients and load up on your favorite vegetables instead. Consider adding options like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and any other vegetables you enjoy. You can also experiment with vegetarian meat substitutes if desired.
- Can I make the Priazzo gluten-free? Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the Priazzo by using gluten-free pizza dough or crust alternatives. Look for gluten-free pizza dough options available at stores or explore homemade gluten-free crust recipes using alternative flours like rice flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Can I make the Priazzo ahead of time and refrigerate it? While it’s best to enjoy the Priazzo fresh out of the oven, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Assemble the Priazzo, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, and then follow the baking instructions.
- Can I freeze the Priazzo for later use? Yes, you can freeze the Priazzo for future enjoyment. After assembling and baking the Priazzo, let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. The Priazzo can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
- Can I adjust the cheese quantities and types in the recipe? Absolutely! The cheese quantities and types mentioned in the recipe are suggestions to replicate the flavors of the original Priazzo. However, feel free to adjust the cheese amounts and experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Get creative with different cheeses like fontina, Gouda, or provolone to add your own twist to the Priazzo.
Remember, these FAQs are here to guide you, but don’t hesitate to let your culinary creativity shine as you make your own version of the Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Copy Cat Pizza Hut Pizza Sauce:
Note: This sauce is also great for dipping fresh vegetables or breadsticks. Enjoy the authentic Pizza Hut flavor right at home!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Makes: 2 cups
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounces) can tomato sauce
- 1/8 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Copy Cat Pizza Hut Pizza Sauce Directions:
- In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the sauce to a rapid boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired thickness for pizza sauce.
- Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
- Use the sauce immediately for your Copycat Pizza Hut Priazzo or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What is your favorite version of the Pizza Hut Priazzo Pizza?
Copy Cat Pizza Hut Priazzo Pizza
We broke the code on the 1985 Pizza Hut Priazzo and skipped the wait time to offer you this Priazzo Recipe. Bring the 1980s back to dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) box Pillsbury pie crusts (or use the copycat Pizza Hut Pizza Dough)
- 1 cup (240 ml) jars Ragu pizza sauce (Try making the copycat Pizza Hut Sauce below!)
- 1 pound (454 grams) sausage or ground beef (a combination of both works well)
- 1 small onion, optional (diced)
- 1 package pepperoni
- 4 cups (about 400 grams) mozzarella cheese (or try cheddar cheese)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare a deep pie pan with non-stick spray.
- Unroll one pie crust into pie pan.
- Brown sausage over medium heat.
- Drain grease from the sausage.
- Add meat to pan with pie crust prepared.
- Pour ½ jar of Ragu pizza sauce onto sausage.
- Layer 2 cups of mozzarella cheese.
- Next, pour the second half of the jar of Ragu pizza sauce.
- Layer the pepperonis on top of the sauce.
- Add ½ of the second jar of Ragu pizza sauce on top of the pepperonis and smooth out.
- Layer 2 more cups of mozzarella cheese,
- Then the second half of the second jar of Ragu pizza sauce on top.
- Unroll the second Pillsbury pie crust on top of the pizza pie and tuck the edges in.
- Cut holes on top for ventilation.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until the crust is a golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
TIP: You’ll want to work it up the sides of your pan. In the end, the dough should overlap the sides making a barrier to hold the thick, delicious pizza sauce.
TIP: To keep the edges of the crust from getting too done, cover the edges of the pie crust with foil for most of the cooking time and then remove it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking so the crust will brown
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 138Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 173mgCarbohydrates: 10gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 5g
Nutritional Information may not be correct
This recipe appears in Julee Morrison’s The How To Cookbook for Teens
Help your teenager discover the joy of cooking and becoming self-sufficient.
Cooking provides curious teens with a fun, creative outlet while teaching them lifelong skills. With simple recipes and step-by-step instructions, this introductory cookbook for teens guides young chefs-to-be from the first day in the kitchen to cooking full, flavorful meals for the whole family.
What sets this cookbook for teens apart from other cookbooks for beginners:
- Teen-friendly foods―Your teen will discover 100 recipes to please their teenage palate, including Nachos, Sloppy Joes, Easy Shrimp Scampi, Mustard and Maple-Glazed Chicken.
- Cooking fundamentals―For teens just starting out, this cookbook teaches all the basics, like cooking techniques, prepping the kitchen, and tips on reading a recipe.
- Built for trial and error―This kids’ cookbook encourages teen chefs to explore. Each recipe includes space to write down new ingredients; teens can experiment with flavors and textures and learn what worked (and what didn’t!).
Transform your teen into a culinary whiz with this beginner cookbook written just for them.
Other Cookbooks by Julee Morrison:
The How-To Cookbook for Teens
Barnes & Noble: LINK
Books-A-Million: LINK
The Complete Cookbook for Teens
Barnes & Noble: LINK
Books-A-Million: LINK
Complete College Cookbook
Barnes & Noble: LINK
Books-A-Million: LINK
The Instant Pot College Cookbook
Barnes & Noble: LINK
Books-A-Million: LINK